Support for Critical Access Hospitals health equity strategy
Health Equity – in which everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health – is central to the mission of the Arizona Center for Rural Health and the AHEAD Az Program. In August 2022 the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) officially adopted The Hospital Commitment to Health Equity and confirmed for mandatory reporting by all US hospitals starting January 1, 2023. The parameters of Health Equity Measure are identified by addressing five ‘domains: equity is a strategic priority, collect data, analyze data, show improvement, and engage leadership. AHEAD AZ Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) Health Equity Strategy Program supports Arizona’s 17 CAHs commitment to health equity by targeting domain 1: Health Equity is an Active Strategic Priority. The program works collaboratively with Critical Access Hospital’s leadership to review of hospital strategic plans to understand how health equity is currently being addressed. The AHEAD team, led by Joyce Hospodar & Dr. Harry McDermott, work collaboratively with CAHs to enhance health equity in our rural communities.